Slow Cooker Shredded Beef in Rich Gravy

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Slow Cooker Shredded Beef in Rich Gravy (Ultimate Comfort Food)

There’s nothing more comforting than a slow cooker full of tender shredded beef simmering in a deep, savory gravy. This recipe is perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep. The beef cooks low and slow until it falls apart, soaking up every bit of the rich, flavorful sauce.

This dish is incredibly versatile — serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or pile it onto sandwiches for an easy, satisfying meal. Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Melt-in-your-mouth tender beef
  • Deep, rich gravy packed with flavor
  • Simple ingredients, big results
  • Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
  • Family-friendly comfort food

Ingredients

  • 3–4 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup beef gravy or beef consommé
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Optional Thickener

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until nicely browned. This adds depth of flavor and enhances the final gravy.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared beef on top of the onions.

Step 3: Make the Gravy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, beef gravy (or consommé), Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, tomato paste, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Pour the sauce over the beef. Cover and cook:

  • LOW for 8–10 hours, or
  • HIGH for 5–6 hours,
    until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Step 5: Shred the Beef

Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the gravy and stir well.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Serving Suggestions

  • Over creamy mashed potatoes
  • Served with rice or buttered egg noodles
  • On toasted hoagie rolls for sandwiches
  • With roasted vegetables or green beans

Tips for Best Results

  • Use chuck roast for the most tender texture
  • Don’t rush the cooking time — low and slow is key
  • Let the beef rest in the gravy before serving for maximum flavor
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with extra gravy

Recipe Variations

  • BBQ Shredded Beef: Add BBQ sauce and a touch of brown sugar
  • French Dip Style: Skip tomato paste and serve with crusty bread
  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or chipotle powder
  • Mexican-Inspired: Add cumin, oregano, and lime juice

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